Question 1

What does it mean that Zion gives birth before having labor pains?

Accepted Answer

The picture of Zion giving birth before labor pains shows how sudden and surprising God’s work can be. Normally, a woman has pain and struggle before a child is born. Here, the child arrives first, almost too quickly to believe. This points to God bringing many people into His people in a way that seems impossible and beyond human planning. It reminds us that spiritual life and growth in the church come from God’s power, not from human strength, and that He can act far faster than we expect.

Question 2

What is meant by a nation being born in one day?

Accepted Answer

The question about a nation being born in one day highlights how unusual and wonderful God’s work will be. On a human level, whole nations do not appear at once. But God says that as soon as Zion goes into labor she brings forth many children. This points to large numbers of people coming to faith in a short time, both from Israel and from other nations. It teaches that God can gather and grow His people quickly, in ways that surprise everyone watching.

Question 3

What does this passage teach about God’s faithfulness to His work?

Accepted Answer

God asks, “Shall I bring to the birth, and not cause to bring forth?” This shows that He does not start a work and then abandon it halfway. Just as He gives power for a woman to deliver, He also gives power for His church to grow and for His promises to come to completion. He began His saving work among His people, and He will carry it through. This gives comfort to believers who feel stuck or discouraged, reminding them that God finishes what He begins.

Question 4

Why are people told to rejoice with Jerusalem and those who mourn for her?

Accepted Answer

People are called to rejoice with Jerusalem, especially those who have mourned over her troubles. Their sadness over her ruins and sins will be answered with joy when God restores her. To “suck and be satisfied with the breasts of her consolations” means they will share fully in the comfort, blessing, and spiritual riches God pours out on His people. Those who cared enough to grieve over God’s city are invited to join in her healing and overflowing joy when God lifts her up again.

Question 5

What does it mean to be satisfied with the breasts of her consolations?

Accepted Answer

This picture speaks of the way new children feed at their mother’s breast and are quieted and filled. Here, Jerusalem, picturing God’s people, is like a mother whose children receive comfort and nourishment from her. Spiritually, it means that believers will find rich comfort and teaching among God’s people and in His promises. They will not be left empty or hungry inside, but will be satisfied and delighted with what God provides through His church and through His grace.

Question 6

How is God’s peace described as being like a river?

Accepted Answer

God promises to extend peace to Jerusalem like a river. A river keeps flowing and does not easily stop. In the same way, God’s peace is pictured as steady, abundant, and life-giving. It is not a brief moment of calm, but a continuing stream of well-being that comes from His favor. Along with this, the wealth or glory of other nations will flow in like a strong stream, showing how God will care for His people and surround them with blessing and security.

Question 7

Why does God compare His comfort to a mother comforting her child?

Accepted Answer

God says, “As one whom his mother comforteth, so will I comfort you.” A mother’s comfort is close, gentle, and personal. She holds her child, carries them, and calms their fears. By using this picture, God shows that His care is tender and not cold or distant. His people will be carried on His people’s sides and bounced on their knees like loved children. This helps us see that God’s comfort reaches both the heart and the body, bringing real rest to tired and hurting people.

Question 8

What happens to God’s servants and His enemies in this passage?

Accepted Answer

The passage ends by saying that when these promises come true, God’s servants will rejoice and grow strong, but His enemies will face His indignation. The hearts of His servants will be glad, and even their “bones” will flourish like fresh plants, meaning they will have new strength and life. At the same time, God’s hand will be clearly seen in judgment against those who opposed Him. This shows both sides of His rule: deep kindness to those who trust Him and firm justice toward those who refuse Him.

Question 9

How can this passage encourage believers who suffer today?

Accepted Answer

For people who suffer, this passage says that God sees their tears for His people and His ways. He promises that sorrow will not be the final word. He can change things suddenly, bringing new life and joy where there was only pain. He will not stop halfway in His work, and He offers steady peace and gentle comfort, like a loving mother with her child. Remembering this can help believers keep praying, keep trusting, and keep hoping, even when they cannot yet see how God will act.

Isaiah 66:7

Before she travailed, she brought forth; before her pain came, she was delivered of a man child.

Rejoice with Jerusalem

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Isaiah 66:7

Before she travailed, she brought forth; before her pain came, she was delivered of a man child.

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Rejoice with Jerusalem

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